This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Hello Star Wars nerds. Obi-Juan here… excited to discuss one of my favorite additions to the Star Wars Universe in recent years – Ahsoka Tano. With her self-titled series, Ahsoka, set to premiere tonight on Disney+, I thought I would take a moment to discuss five highly anticipated characters. Including the badass herself. But before we begin, let me remind you that I tend to stay away from excessive previews, behind the set news, break downs and anything else that dives too deep into a series I want to truly see with fresh eyes. So please don’t troll me if I fail to connect some dots that your eagle eyes and spies have already sussed out. Further… there’s no whining here! I don’t care if you dislike certain characters, writers, producers, directors, etc. Or, if you hate retconning or feel these recent stories are only here to sew together the disjointed sequel trilogy. I mean, seriously… so what?!? Live action Star Wars beyond the films is fracking awesome. Getting new Star Wars content on television every few months? Also… fracking awesome! Criticism is one thing, but pure hatred is just silly and a serious waste of energy. I’m here for the love of it all and you should be too!! *SO THERE… LOL!* If you’re not… to put it Stormtrooper style: “move along.” *HAHAHA!*  
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Whew! That was one heck of a soap box… lol!! Let’s forget all that shall we? For now, we enter the post Battle of Yavin or ABY (After the Battle of Yavin) era roughly 9 years in. The Galactic Empire has been defeated… by a band of Rebels and Ewoks. Sound familiar?? *WINK* Yet, in the wake of war, factions all across the galaxy are trying to seize control of various regions. As The New Republic takes hold with a goal to restore democracy in the core worlds, the outer rim begins to bubble with gangsters, pirates and would be dictators. In the far reaches of space, the early makings of the First Order are beginning to form and whispers of a new evil to lead the charge float on the wind. *QUEUE SINISTER MUSIC HERE!*

Now that we know where we sit in the timeline, let’s show some love for five characters that I fully expect to rock my world in the coming episodes. *WOOT!!* Beginning with the centerpiece herself… Ahsoka!!  

Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson)
For anyone who hasn’t seen the animated series The Clone Wars or Rebels, you are truly missing out when it comes to visual Star Wars. Making the leap to live action was the next logical step. Bringing the backdrop, the Ahsoka Production Brief states: “Set after the fall of the Empire, Ahsoka follows the titular character as she investigates an emerging threat to the vulnerable galaxy.” Further explained by creator and series Showrunner Dave Filoni in interviews during production, Ahsoka is a: “wandering samurai-like Jedi doing good deeds where she can but always ever watchful of greater evils that may lurk, that may threaten all that’s good in the New Republic.” For our purposes, Grand Admiral Thrawn (discussed below) is such a threat and boy am I here for it!!

From her first live action debut in The Mandalorian – Chapter 13: The Jedi to her appearance in The Book of Boba Fett – Chapter 6: From the Desert Comes a Stranger, fans knew a stand-alone series was coming. We also knew that Rosario Dawson would play Ahsoka in the aforementioned episodes as well as in the series. Just how badass she would be? Well… all I can say is we… literally… weren’t… ready!! Her fierce fighting skills. Wielding two Light Sabers. Her pressure to find Thrawn. Her wisdom to guide Din Jarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu. Her time with a young Luke Skywalker (Mark “De-aged” Hamill… LOL!). I mean… wow! Just… WOW!! So much backstory in just two episodes in shows that aren’t even hers. FINALLY… she is here. A full 8 episodes in her own space. And… she’s not alone!

Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo)
Before Din Jarin – the first TV series Mandalorian who DIDN’T tow the Mandalore line – we got Sabine Wren. A badass tactician with a colorful flare whose signature art – her starbird tag – “inspired what would become the symbol for the Rebel Alliance.” *HECK YEAH!!* I fell in love with this character instantly! You??

Of Noble birth from Clan Wren, Sabine was defiant from the start. Standing up for what she felt was right, she defected from the Empire’s Imperial Academy imposed on her as a child and joined a band of Rebels. It’s here that her true worth and skills began to flourish. Strung throughout Rebels, her arc is simply fantastic! *KAPOW!!*
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In the series at hand, the Production Brief tells us that she becomes apprentice to Ahsoka. *OMG – NO WAY!!* Filoni explains further by saying one does not need know anything about Sabine. Just know that: “The struggle between master and apprentice is very central to the show.” *HOLY COW* Man, am I excited to see two women warriors – Master and Apprentice! *BRING IT!!* But let’s not forget about one of the best pilots in the whole galaxy… also a woman!  

Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead)
Beyond the small backstory of Garsa Fwip (Jennifer Beals) in The Book of Boba Fett, Hera Syndulla is the first Twi’lek we see have some true depth! I mean… Hera is a far cry from dancing in Jabba’s Palace with no real purpose or story except Rancor fodder. *YIKES* Nope… not Hera. She was born to the daughter of a General and resistance leader on her home planet of Ryloth. In Rebels, Hera leaves Ryloth at an early age to join a bigger galactic resistance by forming a rebel cell known as the Spectres. Comprised of Jedi Kanan Jarrus (Voice: Freddie Prinze Jr.), Garazeb Orrelios – AKA: Zeb (Voice: Steve Blum), Sabine Wren (Voice: Tiya Sircar), Ezra Bridger (Voice: Taylor Gray) and Hera’s faithful droid Chopper. The group eventually become part of the Phoenix Cell with Hera becoming Phoenix Leader. *NICE*
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By the time we catch up with her in Ahsoka, she’s mother to a son name Jacen Syndulla from her romance with Kanan Jarrus. *AWWW!* She also continues to remain a crucial part of the Alliance against evil and I can’t wait to see where she falls in this series. To see her fly The Ghost in live action is about all I could hope for, but knowing Filoni, I’m sure we’ll get much more than that! Including some representation from the Dark Side. Because if Hera represents all that is good in the light… and believe me… she does! Then our last two characters will bring the dark with haste! *OH HELLS YEAH!!*

Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson)
A former Jedi who survived the Great Purge turned mercenary! Seriously… I could literally stop there because that one sentence alone makes Skoll one hell of a compelling character. *DAMN STRAIGHT* Just to see a wayward Jedi – besides Anakin of course – well… there’s almost no words!! Almost.
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Though a life-long Star Wars fan, I have never delved into the extensive media of novels, comics, Legends, etc. This means I’m seriously lacking in the alternative beyond the movies and television shows. But Skoll… he’s new and he’s ALL TV!! Not to mention, I’m a huge fan of Ray Stevenson who stole my heart in various roles. Including my favorites: Titus Pullo in Rome (HBO; 2005-2007), Volstagg in the Thor films (MCU; 2011-2017) and Blackbeard in Black Sails (Starz; 2016-2017). We also mustn’t forget his voice work as Gar Saxon in both The Clone Wars and Rebels. *FANTASTIC* A true thespian to his craft and a kind and gentle man in real life. Stevenson left us at only 58 years of age with Ahsoka being one of the last things he worked on. I look forward to his performance though bittersweet it will be! To see him ally with our final character will be an honor to say the least.

Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen)
In some ways, Thrawn – played by the insanely talented Lars Mikkelsen – is even more anticipated by fans than the titular Ahsoka. An expert tactician and historian, Thrawn has a unique approach when sizing up and defeating his enemies. By using their own cultural traditions, Thrawn reads his foe in a way no other Star Wars villain has thus far. Dedicating himself to understanding the philosophy, art and culture of his opponents, we see this first-hand in Rebels as Thrawn is determined to: “pull the rebels apart piece by piece.” *YIKES*
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Not to mention, his personal motivation to protect his own peoples – The Chiss – make him somewhat relatable. All be it, in a dark and scary way. We also shouldn’t forget that Chiss, though near-human-like, have better eyesight, sharper hearing and faster reflexes. *KAPOW* Therefore, Thrawn’s combined ambitions and talents saw him quickly climb the ranks in the Galactic Empire to reach Grand Admiral in the Imperial Navy. A title that serves him quite well, I might add!! For in Rebels, also voiced by Mikkelsen (*AWESOME!*), Thrawn’s calm yet cold nature is terrifying! And beyond animation, there is PLENTY of material to pull from as his character exists across Canon and Legends including both comics and novels. To fathom Thrawn moving into live action is absolutely EPIC!! Fans are frothing at the mouth to follow this well beloved and most intriguing character who, dare I say, rivals that of Darth Vader himself, when it comes to villains. *WHOA!!*

Presumed to be defeated by Ezra Bridger (Voice: Taylor Gray) at the series conclusion of Rebels. With the help of the whale-like species Purrgil, both vanished via hyperspace with their whereabouts still unknow. As evidenced in her introduction in The Mandalorian, Thrawn is the absolute center of Ahsoka’s search. Not only to defeat him once and for all, but with hope of finding Ezra in the process. I have no doubt that we will see plenty of Thrawn in this series and I for one, cannot wait!!

Well kids, that’s it! I hope you’re as excited as I am to see Ahsoka. Below are a few characters I hope to see appear in the show to add to the fun. Enjoy.

Will They Appear?

Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen)
Seeing Anakin in the Obi-Wan series was insanely awesome!! While there’s no official word that he is in the series, he’s listed in one episode of Ahsoka on IMDB. A flashback perhaps?? No matter the form, to see him potentially interact with his former apprentice – from animation to live action no less – would be a dream come true!

Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi) and Chopper the Droid
Not the most loved characters in Rebels, I myself grew to really like Ezra and Chopper and hope to see them strut into live action before series end. Considering we have Hera and likely The Ghost, Chopper is sure to be in there somewhere, right? Besides, his tie to Thrawn’s disappearance seems too great to have him completely omitted, right?  
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Until next time… May the Force Be With You… Always!

Please enjoy this sneak peek of Episode 208 of ‘The Afterparty’, which debuts on Apple TV+ tomorrow, 8/23/23.

Also, this sneak peek was assembled/written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Dark Winds’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It is definitely safe to say that every single parent out there, makes a powerful vow when their little one or little ones are born. In that, they do will what they must to protect them, and if by chance they fail in that endeavor, they will do what they must to make sure that justice is served upon the person that does them wrong. Which is a vow that we all back and applaud, for children are indeed the future and should be protected at all costs, and that is why we turn the other cheek, when we hear about a parent that has crossed lines to bring forth justice when that worst-case scenario takes place. But what’s fascinating about this vow, is that so many firmly believe that justice entails an eye for an eye, or the ultimate price, and that is simply not the case.  
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For sometimes, justice is served by ensuring that the person that brought great harm to a little one, spends the rest of their lives behind bars and away from the world, where they receive no agency or the freedoms they once enjoyed. For that… can bring forth a lifetime of suffering in exchange for what was lost, and that is an important lesson/reminder that was brought to bear in the next episode of Dark Winds on AMC. That is, after ‘The March’ informed us of what followed that shootout at the Blond Man’s creepy hideout. As it turned out, both Joe and Bern were fine, if not shaken, and that gunfight pushed them to lay in pursuit and hunt the Blond Man and that in turn… led to quite the harrowing decision for Joe. In that, this creepy dude was so desperate to escape justice, that he dove into a canyon, and rather than let him escape or delay the search… Joe went after him and into an uncertain future. 

Which allowed for the story to offer up some other plot advancement along the way. The kind that saw Emma grapple with that reporter once again, since she tried to get to Sally, while trying to handle Sally’s post-partum depression. Since she truly found herself struggling in this tale and with this being a show set in the 1970s… Emma may not know what to do here. Plus, this story also caught up with Jim Chee and his strange arrangement with the Vines family, since big B.J. Vines opted to push Jim to take a huge payday to follow his wife and see if by chance cheating was on the docket for her. A deal that Jim deeply considered in this tale, but possibly for other reasons. Since Rosemary may have some information regarding the Charley case, and that would indeed provide closure for Jim.  

But truly, where this episode shined, was via Joe’s plight. Because it turned out that he hurt himself badly in the pursuit of Blondie, to the point where he likely needed to stay put and wait for help. Which was being assembled by Bernadette and Gordo at the ridge of the canyon. But Joe wanted justice, and wanted his man, so he set a break in his wrist and controlled the bleeding from his head and set out to find the monster that hurt his boy, and well… when he found him… it seemed as though this story was going to go to where our minds go regarding justice. Since Joe got the drop on Blondie and cuffed him and tied a rope around his neck. To control him and to get him to march his way back to civilization, and well… this brought about one tense and ugly sequence for certain.
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Wherein the Blond Man tried to compare himself to Joe, because of the brutality put on display by the Lieutenant and where Joe, had to work out what kind of justice he wanted. Because it would have been quite easy to kill the Blond Man here in the desolation of the canyon and have his revenge and move on with his life, and in fact… he came quite close to doing so. But something within Joe made him realize, that a man this disgusting would welcome death. As though it was some kind of release, and of course such an act would bring Joe to his level and help the monster feel good about his end. So, the only way to truly punish him, was to put him behind bars. Wherein he would suffer in silence and never find the release or agency or attention he so craved. Which was no easy epiphany to reach since Blondie did everything within his power to either kill Joe or push Joe to bring an attack to bear. But in the end… Joe wanted that perfect justice for his boy and resisted giving into the darkness.

Which allowed for Bernadette to rescue Joe and his prisoner, and it also allowed for Joe to put the Blond Man behind bars… and now, the real work can begin. Since Joe needs something solid to put this man in prison until the day he dies. But while we wait to see how Joe hopefully makes that happen through evidence and investigation, we can celebrate one incredible tale. One that did remind us that there are better paths to vengeance than wanton violence and the ultimate line, and it did so in the most compelling manner possible. By putting Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn to the test like never before. Because he suffered here, and we truly came to learn just how tough he truly is and well… it was just wonderful to see him finally square off against the man that caused him so much pain in such a noble manner. Since it finally allowed for Joe to confront his pain and his fury… and transform them into something positive and worthwhile. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the finale of ‘The Wild Sides’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It really is quite amazing how resilient and strong nature can be. Because no matter the odds and no matter the stresses, life simply finds a way to survive on Planet Earth. For the animals that populate the globe know deep down it is either fight to see tomorrow or nothing at all, and that survival instinct really does accomplish wonders to say the least, and truly… we’ve had a sampling of how powerful it can be courtesy of the BBC America series, The Wild Sides. For we’ve watched the animals of the Mashatu Wilderness in Botswana, find water despite living through a drought, and thrive, despite the danger surrounding them. All of which has made for incredible television, the kind that came to an end in an equally as incredible manner.
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For ‘Growing Up’, the finale of this series, took the time to showcase quite the incredible new dynamic in this part of the world. In that, rather than feel secure in having water and food once again and retreating to old haunts… every species that migrated to the riverbank… decided to stay. For resources were there, as was easier hunting grounds, and that fruitful nature outweighed the stresses and dangers of having a tiny community of wildlife present by the river. So, the vast majority of the species that we’ve followed in this journey, laid down roots. In fact, they began to give birth to generation after generation, and rather than teach these young ones how to forage in difficult places, they simply showcased the majesty of the riverbank, and the water and food it provided. Which in turn may make it seem as though there was a sense of laziness present, but that wasn’t the case.

Instead, it led to accelerated and focused learning for the predators of this new world. Which led to incredible scenes that showcased how those lessons worked well, and of course… it also showed how nature adapted to having all these species in such close quarters. Since the prey learned how to spot that which hunted them to avoid death, and they of course…. could close ranks as needed to live. Minimizing losses, but they still occurred. For the predators adapted as well and found food despite some dry spells and well… what we witnessed in this story was nothing short of the birth of a tiny eco system. One born out of a desperate need for water and food and one that grew into something supremely efficient and dynamic, and it truly featured all the ups… and downs of the natural world.

Since the scavengers of this tiny world only needed to sit back and patiently wait to enjoy a meal. Because close proximity made life easy for them and hard for those hunting, since fights would of course break out over delicious foods. Not to mention, being in such close proximity to trouble sometimes motivated internal fights in an effort to relieve that stress permanently. And sadly, those fights were amplified and sorrowful in this tiny little animal society. Because in standard living spaces, the brewing of a fight would give those who wanted away from combat, all the time they needed to evacuate. But here, we saw a fight amongst the baboons just explode, and that cost a little one its life. Making it clear that hard times were amplified in this incredible little place.

But that doesn’t seem to matter all that much to the residents of this riverbank. For they are comfortable there now, and thriving, despite the risks of more droughts and dry spells ahead, and other dangers. Because they adapted and figured out the best way to survive in an environment that only gives each of them of a sliver of a chance to do so. But that is what nature does, it grabs hold of that chance and never lets go and does what it must to turn that into a positive and well… that was a powerful message to send our way to close out this dynamic series. One that really pulled no punches and informed us of nature’s chaos and its outright inspirational beauty. For it was quite amazing to see desperate and thirsty animals, transform a near wasteland into a lovely and thriving home, one that continues to endure.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Praise Petey’. To revisit the previous two episodes, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Individuals that come from a toxic background or have toxic family members in their lives that great efforts have been made to avoid… all harbor one particularly devastating fear in their hearts. In that, they are terrified of following in those toxic footsteps. Because they want to see the generational trauma in their family be shattered. So, they can rise above and start new and proud traditions in their lives that they can happily pass down to future family members, and they also fear such matters… because it is easy to slip into the devil one knows, so they truly try their best to avoid what once was and be incredible people. But alas, while those are noble intentions and while their heart is in the right place, the hard truth about such matters is that… unless certain fixes come into play… there will come a day where they mirror toxicity. 
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As to what those fixes are… are quite simple in nature. In that, they need to confront the pain that traumatic past caused them and resolve it and understand how to be free of those deep-rooted behaviors. Only then can they move forward in the manner they want to, and for proof that this is the case, well then oddly enough… look no further than the season one finale of Praise Petey on Freeform. Because ‘Punishment Hole’ and ‘Comet Day’ showcased how bad things can happen when that work hasn’t been completed, and sadly… it was Petey that taught us this powerful lesson. Because in reality, while she is a wonderful person that really does want to do more in life and be better than her father, there’s a lot of unresolved trauma in Petey’s heart and she hasn’t broken free of the generational trauma and toxicity that her father and mother imparted upon her, and that… allowed for her to slip into some toxic behaviors when life got tough in New Utopia.

For the town was buzzing about her potentially being pregnant in these two tales, because she just so happened to have a UTI. Which made everyone believe (and sing) about her and Bandit finally hooking up, and that… deeply bothered Petey. Because she hadn’t hooked up with Bandit, this was a result of the condition of her bathroom, and the excitement over her sex life and the reveal that such excitement came out of the possibility that Petey would have a blood heir, which would fulfill ‘The Prophecy’, pushed her put folks in the Punishment Hole and to lash out at the town often. Because this story revealed that Petey doesn’t have a sense of self-worth just yet. For that would have allowed for such rumors to bounce off of her ears since she would have security about their life and wouldn’t care what others think about her. But instead, she let that insecurity give way to anger. Which she was able to control for a time, but that did indeed unleash something toxic within, and it all cascaded into something more when Comet Day arrived.

Because the town firmly believed that they were about to ascend. Which meant everyone was to stay put and behold the glory of this moment, and that ruined Petey’s chance to accept a prestigious award for her efforts in making this town a better place, and well… when she discovered the comet was nothing more than a BBQ sauce smudge on her father’s telescope, she decided the time had come to deprogram the town and show them the lie that was her father, and for a time… this seemed to be nothing more than her big noble moment. One where the town would be free of toxicity. But alas, this also meant… Petey would no longer be in regard in New Utopia, nor would she be the phenom others saw her to be, and that… was scary. Because for the first time in her life, people saw her worth, saw her as something more and the possibility of losing all that, combined with her deep-rooted anger over how her parents treated her, and ignored her and saw her as less, because of their own lack of self-worth, pushed her to do something scary.

In that, she decided to give into the trauma and follow in her father’s footsteps and declared herself the new leader after the comet (sort of) failed to arrive and promised that she would lead everyone to enlightenment. Which was stunning to say the least, and bold. Since this story seemingly was moving toward Petey being a real hero and a person that was going to enact incredible change in this town. But alas, the story took the realistic route and pointed out how good people can stumble when their scars re-open and expose old and unresolved emotional wounds. Also… it showed us that the comet is real, and it might take a whole separate article to unpack that doozy of a moment. But that aside, this really was quite the amazing finale. Because it offered up such thoughtful and realistic concepts wrapped in the wonder of comedy to soften the blow and hopefully, we get a second season of this magnificent series. So, we can see if Petey St. Barts will put in the work and hopefully redeem herself and save this town from its madness. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Men In Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Something that is genuinely fascinating about the human condition, is how we have so many unique quirks and traditions amongst the various cultures of the world, when in fact… we are all one species. One that also, ironically, shares in a great deal of universal traditions and experiences. But that just speaks to the wonder of humanity and how special we are, and we often celebrate those unique aspects of humanity, via a roadtrip. Wherein we can learn about them and potentially experience them firsthand. So, we can find newfound respect for other cultures and potentially pass on the best parts of those traditions to others and keep them alive, and that is why… this week’s episode of the hit STARZ series, Men In Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham, is of note.
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For ‘Maori Culture’ saw Sam and Graham dive into the wonder of the Maori, the true natives of New Zealand who developed quite the rich culture long before the islands were colonized, and sadly… they experienced what all indigenous people do when colonizers arrive on their shores. But thankfully, there is a push to keep the Maori Culture in the limelight, and the Maori are eager to share their culture in any capacity to those willing to learn and well… Sam and Graham wanted to know… everything. Which allowed for them to learn a great deal about the nature of the Haka and other such dances, and how they are quite symbolic in nature now, and work toward a deeper meaning over the fear they were once designed to instill, and their learning experience didn’t end there.

Because Sam and Graham also took the time to learn about the majesty of the iconic tattoos that the Maori proudly wear. As it turns out, these tattoos are designed to tell a story more often than not and represent important chapters of the lives of the person that brandishes them with pride. Of course, Sam wanted to get one, and that likely would go over poorly with the various acting jobs he’s currently apart of. So instead, he and Graham did the next best thing, and received temporary tattoos in the traditional manner. Which involved telling their own stories so that the artist could properly capture their words upon their arms, and that allowed for the audience… to learn a great deal about this duo. Specifically, how their fathers shaped their lives and that was quite the intimate sequence to say the least.

But of course, what would this show be without some fun shenanigans in place to balance all the depth and meaning out? And that was here as well. For we also came to learn that the Maori have some aqua based traditions. The kind that involves friendly races in what is known as the Waka. A canoe that was once used for war, but much like the Haka, has been adapted to modern times and well, since Sam is as competitive as they get, he wanted to race Graham badly in the new traditional manner. Which Graham agreed to, but really used this opportunity to just get out on the water and enjoy the wonder of the Waka. Which led to Sam embarrassing himself on several occasions by flopping into the water from being so aggressive. But he did get what he wanted, since the race belonged to Team Heughan.

If anything, this was just… a beautiful episode when all is said done. One that really did speak to the majesty of the roadtrip and how it really does educate us regarding cultures we know nothing about. But what truly made it so beautiful, is that we too enjoyed the wonder of the Maori in an intimate manner with Sam and Graham, since we were there for every lesson and powerful moment, and it was equally as amazing to hear these men open up in the manner they did and become one with Maori culture. All of which made for a vastly different episode of this show, in a good way, because this was engaging stuff. The kind that was presented to us once again in a supremely cinematic manner and well, now that we’ve reached the end of this amazing leg of the journey, it is safe to say we are all eager for next week’s adventure. To see what other surprises await us as Sam and Graham continue their incredible journey through New Zealand. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Minx’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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One unfortunate truth about our society is that women do not command the respect they outright deserve, simply because… modern society doesn’t cherish or respect women. For women are still seen as inferior and too many still think that men should be deferred to on all things and well… that’s dumb. For all genders are equal in this world and there are plenty of brilliant and wondrous women in positions of leadership out there that do indeed deserve respect for the work they put in and what their work creates. But alas, the good fight will have to continue to hammer that fact into the heads of so many, and one helpful way that happens… is through storytelling. Since we learn a plenty from stories and that’s why this week’s episode of the STARZ series, Minx, is of note.
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Because ‘A stately pleasure dome decree’ took the time to showcase the crap that women have to go through to enjoy some measure of respect. To put in perspective how much better we can be about offering that up in this life, and one way that respect is commanded… is through putting the disrespectful in their place. Which is what both Tina and Shelly had to do at the home office. Because a couple of the models decided to throw shade and nonsense during a Billie Jean King watch party. The kind that forced Shelly to not only prove measures of equality through an impromptu tennis match, but also forced Tina to just put these guys in their place. Because they simply would not shut up about male superiority and well, having their egos knocked down a peg by Tina, in one unique way involving a pair of penis stuffed tennis rackets, happened to be one solid way to command respect.

However, that isn’t the only way that a woman is forced to find respect in this world. Sometimes… a lady just has to play the game and be the shark in the waters of the business, or in this case, publishing world. Since shark-ish behavior is all some people in that world understand and respect. Which was what Joyce had to do while she and Doug were in Las Vegas. For they were out in Sin City to have Doug sell the international rights to the magazine. Which meant that disrespect was everywhere to be found. After all, Joyce wasn’t part of the good old boys’ club that ran publishing and ironically, women’s magazines, so she did her best to get along and even stand up for quite the blast from the past in Maggie. Who was now the editor of what was in essence, a Minx clone. But she understood the importance of helping out an up and comer, until that backfired of course.

Because Maggie, didn’t respect Joyce at all, especially not after their falling out. So, she instead drummed up drama to force that unity to give this new magazine clout. The kind that would lock up some of what Minx was after from a financial standpoint. Which in turn prompted Joyce… to be the shark and teach Maggie and anyone else eager to disrespect her in the business, that she was not to be trifled with. All by having Doug buy Maggie’s new mag from her publisher. So, it could be promptly shut down. A move that hammered home the point and sent out quite the message to the publishing world. One that landed the international deal and of course… left Joyce feeling a little down about this move. After all, it wasn’t like her, but it did get her the respect she deserved.

Of course, all of this would have been unnecessary had equality been in play in the first place. But this is a story that reflected the real world and also helped to remind us… how little has changed. Because a lot of what happened here, happens in 2023, plain and simple. Making this a shockingly poignant and powerful tale in the end, one that forced some tough growth for the characters. But alas, they need to get ahead and get people to understand they’ve come to dominate, and forcing respect is part of that process, and it will indeed be interesting to see how Joyce and Tina handle their newfound respect, and confidence, in the days to come, as season two of this stunning and poignant series continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Heels’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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There are a great many reasons why people tune in to enjoy the hit STARZ series, Heels. For some it is about the sheer fact that at long last, a television show is on the airwaves that presents wrestling in an honest light. Since the sport receives deep respect here and that has allowed for this series to become the definitive wrestling series on television. For others it is about enjoying the deeper themes this show presents to the world. Since it does indeed ponder deeply upon the pursuit of our dreams and what that actually looks like in the real world. But of the many reasons that motivate people to tune into this series, there is one in particular that everyone is eager to experience when they settle in, specifically… the journey that the characters go upon.
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For this show features deeply developed characters that experience all the ups and downs that we the audience go through. Giving rise to a powerful sense of relatability and connection with these characters, since we’ve been in their shoes now and again and well… the wonder of the characters, and their realism and their plight is top of mind today… simply because the next episode of this magnificent series put them front and center once again. For ‘Heavy Heads’ was a story that offered up grand reflections for a lot of the characters. The kind that really did feel real and powerful since some of the journeys here offered up perspective on how hard it can be to find a sense of purpose in this life, how scary success can be when you want it so badly… and how sometimes we wonder if we’ve wasted our lives in the pursuit of our dreams.

Feats this story accomplished through three key character journeys in this tale. One of which, involved Crystal Tyler. Because while the Duffy Wrestling League was about to launch its Women’s League at last, Crystal was anything but joyous about it. For it meant that the DWL needed to bring in a ringer, and that made Crystal nervous. For it might expose her inexperience and make her look the fool on stage, but thankfully the arrival of Elle Dorado, did nothing but help Crystal. Since it pushed her to be more and be better, but that didn’t keep the fear of losing the women’s belt and losing her standing as a success story out of her heart. Because we all know there is little in this life that Crystal wants more than to be seen as worthy and wondrous, and it was fascinating to see her experience such fear. But more importantly it did remind us on a fundamental level, that success can be scary, especially when we want it so badly… and hopefully Crystal can find peace or at least balance regarding her standing as champion in the weeks to come.

As for the other characters that offered up some fascinating and relatable life examinations, one of them was Wild Bill Hancock. Simply because he and Diego hit the road to visit a wrestling convention and spread the word about the DWL, and while out there… Bill ran into some old friends from his glory days in the ring. Who were quick to speak ill of wrestling because of the lasting physical and emotional pain it left them with, and well… that deeply unsettled Bill. Since these men spoke to there being more to life than just wrestling and what it has to offer and that pushed Bill into a deeply reflective place. Wherein he began to wonder if the sacrifices he had made in creating his wild image and in rising to the top and sticking to the sport… had forced him to waste precious years and forced him to not experience what life truly might offer, and this was powerful to see. Since there are folks like Bill out there, who have oft pondered upon what the pursuit has done to their lives.

Regarding the whole concept of pondering upon where we stand in this life, well that was handled by Ace Spade. Who was trying to keep a low profile in town, while he worked to sort his mind out. Because despite being home and feeling loved by his brother through and through… he still didn’t understand his purpose or what he should be doing, he was just convinced that he needed to be away from wrestling, and a day off for Willie allowed for him to spend the afternoon with his nephew and just live for a bit and gain some perspective. In that, wrestling had been good to him, and that… he had put too much stock into what his father wanted versus what he wanted. Which allowed for him realize, he didn’t hate wrestling, he hated how everyone had their own expectations of what kind of wrestler he should be. Which helped him to understand, he could find purpose and freedom and meaning through wrestling, if he did things his way. But more on that in a moment. Because what matters more here, was that Ace’s journey was supremely relatable, since we’ve all been in his shoes, or will be… where we just don’t know where we belong, and a little down time and honesty with ourselves… can help us find that.
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But while that made for some amazing and powerful moments, where this episode also impressed, was from a wrestling standpoint and through Jack’s journey. Which tied together since Jack finally found some humility in this particular tale and tried to offer an actual apology to Gully to try and avoid the inevitable. A move inspired by Staci of course, but one that he embraced, only to have it fail. For Gully wasn’t that kind of fellow and expected cross promotion to hit and well, that meant Jack had to begrudgingly write lines for Rooster again and welcome FWD into the house of the DWL. That allowed for Jack’s creativity to shine and for Rooster to finally get some ugliness off of his chest since Jack basically let Rooster speak from the heart via the page, and that also brought about… some epic and amazing matches for certain.

The kind that saw Crystal hold her own in the ring despite her worries, and we finally were able to see exactly how Ricky Rabies earned his unsettling nickname, through an equally as unsettling act. But where the wrestling truly impressed, was by bringing Ace Spade’s journey in this story about full circle. For in the midst of Rooster’s attempts to seal a DWL belt, a mysterious cloaked stranger flew into the ring from the stands above and beat the living hell out of Rooster and his compatriot. A move that drove the crowd wild, as did the theatrics to follow. For this mysterious stranger identified himself as ‘The Condamned’, a dark knight eager for redemption, and it just so happened… that the stranger in question was none other than Ace Spade in disguise. Giving rise to a new chapter in Ace’s journey as a wrestler, and this move also opened up a whole new world of theatrics for the Duffy Wrestling League.

Because just like that… the league is telling stories now and offering up the incredible show that Jack Spade has had in mind for ages, and it’s hitting right with the audience and growing the business. But importantly, the characters are beginning to grow and experience all of life’s little nuances as the dream continues to thrive, and that… made for one compelling and amazing episode. One that kept our attention from beginning to end, and undoubtedly had so many of us cheering when the Condamned dropped into the ring. Because the writing in this episode was simply top-notch, and it offered what we love the most about the show. Time with the people that we relate to and are rooting for and that epic ending, leaves us hungry for more of what is undoubtedly one the finest shows on television right now. So, we can see what comes next for Ace’s attempt at redemption, and for this league as it continues to grow into a force to be reckoned with. Until next time.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It is definitely safe to say, that young adult centric storytelling, is enjoying revolutionary success right now in the literary world. For stories in that vein are everywhere to be found in bookstores and are often highlighted online and rightfully so. For these stories are in fact, essential reading for young adults these days. In large part because they really do put forth scenarios and moments that young adults deal with often, giving so many the chance to process life’s difficulties and surprises in a safe and healthy environment. But while they are indeed teaching and helping young adults to grow, what’s fascinating about this genre is that it has yet to translate that success to the silver and small screen. 

Granted there are exceptions to that, and there was a time not long ago where YA films were all the rage. But they simply have not maintained the same success in the visual entertainment world as they do in the literary world, and that could be attributed to several simple factors. In that, sometimes these stories cover a lot of topics, and that can be difficult to properly blend together into a film or a show, and sometimes what they cover offers limited appeal to wider audiences. Which is unfortunate since there is so much to learn from these books. But that is why we are seeing a grand push from creatives to bring forth Young Adult centric stories that offer more to wider audiences, so those grand messages can be spread and so this genre can enjoy more success. And it just so happens that Prime Video is now home to a YA story in this vein, courtesy of author Harlen Coben.

For he has adapted his wildly popular YA Mystery/Thriller novel, Shelter, into Harlan Coben’s Shelter for the network and well, it is definitely safe to say that Harlen and the talented creatives that work on this new show have delivered quite the incredible story. One that features something for everyone. Making it a supremely accessible YA story, largely thanks to its plot. Since the ‘Pilot’ episode, introduces us to a young man named Mickey Bolitar who is dealing with quite the difficult time in his life. For not only has he lost his family to a tragic car accident, but his new life in New Jersey is proving to be quite difficult and unsettling. For new acquaintances are fading out of his life under suspicious circumstances and suddenly his family’s history is weighing heavy upon him. Especially since it seems as though his father was caught up in something awful, giving rise to a grand quest for the truth, and a dangerous one at that.

Which is… a plot that perfectly appeals to a wide audience. After all, you’ve got a deliciously engaging mystery at hand. One where clues are peppered down perfectly. Which is more than enough to keep everyone engaged and eager to see what exactly Mickey has stumbled upon and what exactly is happening in this town, and it just so happens that what lies beneath those jaw-dropping surprises and the mystery at hand… is where this story shines from a Young Adult perspective. Since there are themes and moments that revolve around what it means to lose someone, we love a very young age, and of course… how hard it can be to move into a new town as a teen or deal with the realities of starting over in life before life has even really started. Giving rise to a perfect blend of storytelling, one that really does appeal to viewers of all ages. 

Which comes courtesy of some phenomenal writing. The kind that seamlessly blends these elements together and gives life to fully developed and dynamic characters that we can relate to on some level, and care about and want to see succeed. Of course, that is further enhanced by some amazing acting as well. Since this cast of up-and-coming stars sell every moment with a realism that adds to the wonder of this series, and they are at times, wonderfully counterbalanced by Tovah Feldstein’s turn as what appears to be the heavy of this series. But what matters most, is that we are indeed now in the thick of a juicy thriller, one filled to the brim with powerful mysteries, and truly, it will be interesting to learn the truth about Mickey’s family and see if he can grow and overcome his pain the midst of this trying time, as season one of this dynamic and refreshing new Young Adult series continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Foundation’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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For the most part, television shows as a whole… tend to do their best to not cram as much storytelling as possible into a single episode, and it makes sense as to why. After all, a single episode is a grand opportunity to explore a singular concept. One that can stay with the audience for days, so it is best to stay within that realm… or… just move the plot along. Since there is a story to be told, and progressing it is still important. But now and again, one runs into a show that is super ambitious in nature and ready to try to pack an episode in with either big concepts or big moments, all while advancing the plot as well. Which is a risky gambit, because if done incorrectly, we’re basically treated to an outright mess.
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But the shows that can blend all of that together seamlessly? Well, they’re the stuff of legend and that is definitely the right label to apply to Foundation on Apple TV+. For the next episode in this science fiction epic, took the time to blend together a bevy of brewing plots to create a grand and sweeping story that left us deeply eager for more. All by taking us across the galaxy to see what new challenges people were encountering. For instance, there was hardship and surprise to be found on Trantor in ‘Why the Gods Made Wine’. Since Poly and Brother Constant finally arrived and enjoyed the beauty and spoils of that world before being placed under arrest as enemies of the state. And of course, this episode also featured the grand wedding announcement for Brother Day, one that was elegant and lovely, and concerning for him. Since his bride to be made sure to make her power known as well. Not to mention Hober Mallow reached his destination, a mysterious ship filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered.

All of which made for some engaging storytelling to say the least, the kind that was further expanded upon by way of one unsettling return to Ignis. Since this return voyage back informed us that Hari’s plan to use the Mentalics as the foundation of the Second Foundation, was going to cause more harm than good. Because Tellem wanted no part of the future, she merely wanted someone to guide her people to a better tomorrow and saw Gaal as that leader. Which led to a powerful power struggle in this tale. One that might have been grounded in mental control or might not have. But what mattered more, is that our heroes were no longer united. They were scared and pondering upon different paths and that put a dark cloud over this story, one that only thickened in its ominous nature when we learned how far Tellem was willing to go to have things her way. 

For she played Gaal and Salvor like fiddles to move them far away from Hari. Who spent a lot of time in the closing moments of this tale, reflecting upon his life and its direction. Which allowed for us to see how his life was before this dark age in the galaxy’s history and learn that he was a simpler man back then. One that loved math and loved a woman, and merely wanted nothing more than to work on his own projects and enjoy the wonder of life, with his forthcoming child. But Empire’s greed changed all that and forced Hari to do dark things and accept an offer from Empire to come to the center of the galaxy and work without a net and accomplish wonders. But instead, it pushed him to find a way to examine the dark end that awaited the Empire and how best to navigate the ugliness he now knew man was capable of. 

Of course, there was good reason or him to reflect upon such matters. For that kind of thinking is what people do when they are near death, as may be the case with Hari. Since Tellem had Hari bound to a tidal pool to await a horrible, waterlogged end. All of which made, for one intense tale. One where so much was happening and where so many plot plots progressed at a breakneck speed. Not to mention, we came to learn the last great hope for the future is nothing more than the worst of us and was created by our worst traits and well… that changes everything and sets the stage for a desperate back half of this season. Wherein we may lose Hari once again, and where any hope for a better tomorrow, may die with him. Until next time.